Heineken has announced the construction of a state-of-the-art Global Research & Development Centre in Zoeterwoude, the Netherlands, named the Dr. H.P. Heineken Centre. As stated in a press statement, this EUR 45 million investment underscores Heineken’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and maintaining the Netherlands’ position as a leader in food technology. The facility, set to open in mid-2025, will focus on advancing Heineken's global product development and process improvements.
Covering 8,800 m², the Dr. H.P. Heineken Centre will serve as the heart of Heineken’s R&D network, which spans locations in Mexico, South Africa, and Southeast Asia. It will house cutting-edge laboratories, a sensory research division, packaging development departments, and a model service centre. The team, comprising staff from 12 countries, will work on flagship brands such as Heineken, Desperados, and Amstel.
Heineken CEO Dolf van den Brink emphasized the centre’s role in advancing the company’s "Brew a Better World 2030" strategy: "This Centre opens new possibilities to optimize flavours, innovate products, and improve sustainability. It’s a milestone in Heineken’s journey toward net-zero emissions and a fairer, healthier world."
The R&D Centre is strategically located next to Heineken’s largest brewery in Europe and near Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), fostering collaboration between industry and academia. Innovations developed in Zoeterwoude include Heineken 0.0, the Draught Keg, and horizontal fermentation systems, which are central to Heineken’s distinctive flavor. The site is also home to the brewing sector's first large-scale e-boiler, reflecting Heineken’s commitment to sustainability.
Jack Pronk, professor at TU Delft, highlighted the potential of the new centre: "Biotechnology has immense potential to address global challenges and create a sustainable future. This collaboration will allow staff and students to contribute to groundbreaking fermentation research at the interface of academia and industry."
The facility honors Dr. Henry Pierre Heineken (1886-1971), a chemist and innovator who succeeded Heineken’s founders in 1914. Dr. Heineken introduced transformative quality and production improvements, laying the foundation for the company’s global success.
Heineken’s director of R&D, Hubert te Braake, highlighted the significance of the collaboration: "This centre will merge science with craftsmanship to create exciting, sustainable, and efficient products that meet future consumer needs."
